Official Statement: International Jeunesses Musicales Competition Belgrade

Jeunesses Musicales International (JMI) has learned with deep concern that, by the decision of the City of Belgrade, Jeunesses Musicales Belgrade is no longer the organiser of the International Jeunesses Musicales Competition Belgrade.

This decision closes a major chapter in the cultural life of the region. From 1971 to January 2026, Jeunesses Musicales Belgrade built the Competition into a respected international platform for young artists—one defined by professional standards, continuity, and cultural credibility. It was also the only competition in the region that formed part of the World Federation of International Music Competitions (WFIMC).

The Competition has been a programme fully and formally endorsed by resolutions of JMI’s Annual General Assemblies in Budapest (1969), Copenhagen (1970), and Suzhou (2019). For more than five decades and up until January 2026, it carried the name “Jeunesses Musicales” as a hallmark of its quality, and mission to support and promote young talent internationally, strengthening the Competition’s standing and value for emerging musicians.

JMI expresses its full solidarity with Jeunesses Musicales Belgrade and extends sincere thanks to all who shaped and sustained the Competition over more than fifty years: organisers, artists, jurors, partners, sponsors, and audiences.

Decisions affecting cultural institutions and long-standing international programmes carry serious responsibility. Creative organisations and free artistic expression are a cornerstone of a society’s democratic health and openness. Any process that determines the future of such an institution must be transparent, based on clear professional criteria, and guided by the public interest - safeguarding artistic excellence and real opportunities for young musicians.

Jeunesses Musicales International stands firmly with Jeunesses Musicales Belgrade in its continued commitment to young artists, professional standards, and the dignity of culture.